SPORTS AND SPORT VENUE OVERVIEW

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, left many indelible footprints on American soil. Our security landscape is now shaded in color-coded threat conditions, mandated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with numerous targets that may tempt terrorists to action. Many of these targets include large and highly-visible public gatherings, such as sporting events. Terrorist attacks at such events pose grave security concerns because of their ability to inflict mass casualties and damage the national psyche. Major sports organizations, which must strike a balance between preserving safety and cultivating an enjoyable fan experience, face numerous difficulties in redefining security at America’s sporting venues.

CRA helps America’s sports venues and organizations prepare for this threat by assisting in the development, enhancement, and evaluation of plans, policies, and procedures for evacuation and sheltering in place.

CRA has led DHS-funded efforts to enhance security planning in major sporting venues which are major terrorist targets. CRA has worked with teams from the National Football League including the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles and Major League Baseball clubs such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as NASCAR venues like Dover International Speedway to review and evaluate plans in a practical manner.

“…I just finished singing your praises to one of my professional colleagues. ...I can not stop talking about the great job you and the others did during the Forum. Thank you for your great presentation!” - Professor of Temple University’s Sport and Recreation Administration Program October 16, 2006

In each case, the importance of a broad evacuation strategy was emphasized. Even when a critical target evacuates its own area of dominion, coordination with agencies beyond the target is essential.   CRA begins the process of assessing, evaluating, and refining sports venues plans with an assessment of the status quo and a deliberate, practiced process of information collection. Once CRA has assessed the salient issues we assist the venue or organization in validating and improving their plans by utilizing individualized and governmentally approved tools, such as training and exercises.

Sports teams and government jurisdictions share an interest in maintaining Americans’ trust thus, they must also accept the responsibilities that come with defending against a terrorist attack. Adequate preparation will prove decisive in mitigating the effects of such an attack.

Click HERE to contact Rich Vasquez or call (703) 562-1009 to discuss how CRA can assist you with exercise development.